3 Reasons Why I Do Yoga

College raises stress levels and emotions like never before, it is nearly impossible to maintain a social life, excellent grades and getting more than eight hours of sleep on a daily basis. Priorities are difficult to balance at this time in my life. It is even harder to find that personal time when you have responsible that seem to never end. My solution to this never ending process is yoga. Yoga has an essence that can change your attitude. It is perfect for athletes who want to be more flexible or non athletes who want to live a healthier life. Yoga incorporates not only physical aspects, but mental aspects that can bring pure clarity. It only takes a short amount of time out of your day to transcend your mind and body. Yoga helps me feel energized and relaxed at the same time. 

Before college I had never taken part in a yoga class. My first semester, however, I had to do yoga on a weekly basis as part of the volleyball team here. Being a former dancer, I really enjoyed yoga for the flexibility aspect, but it took me longer to appreciate the mental aspect. Breathing is an element of yoga that can be considered an exercise because it requires discipline. I’ve learned so much from yoga and it has helped me in many ways. 

Here are my top personal reasons for practicing yoga: 

1. To become more aware of the mind and body  

• It is a great time to just take in life and thoughts. The two times I am in my mind and body the most are right before bed and during yoga. I think it is important to be in complete awareness of what your mind and body are saying. 

2. To reduce stress

• During yoga I try to shut out the world. It is like time is stopped for the time I give to myself during yoga. Yoga is a moment in life for me to stop thinking about class, relationships, work and anything that is on my mind.

3. To increase strength and flexiblitity 

• Yoga has a big impact physically if you concentrate on your body. It takes much practice and discipline to be able to have the strength and flexibility to hold intense poses. Over time both will increase with a positive mind and lots of practice. 

Yoga class at CU. 2/4/15

My friend practicing tree pose atop Mt.Major

6/11/14